iyadh, MINA – Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz has approved a plan to establish specialized anti-corruption departments at the Public Prosecution to investigate cases of corruption and directly linked them to the Attorney General.

The King’s approval of establishing these departments emanates from his concern for combating all forms of corruption; aiming to protect his country and its resources, maintain public funds and protect the integrity of public employment, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) quoted Attorney General Sheikh Saud bin Abdullah Al-Mo’jib as saying.

Sheikh Al-Mo’jib pointed out that the King and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince are keen to combat and uproot corruption with utmost force and transparency, noting that prior to the King’s approval the cases have been dealt with by Public Employment Crimes Department.

Saudi Arabia in November launched a massive anti-corruption drive that led to the arrest and detention of dozens of princes, businessmen and current and former senior officials.

The setting up of dedicated permanent and transparent departments is seen as a step forward to strengthen the fight against all forms of corruption, a key component of the ambitious drive to modernise the country. (T/RS5/RS1)